Catholic Health Set to Open Advanced Wound Healing Center at Sisters of Charity Hospital, St. Joseph Campus

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Catholic Health Set to Open Advanced Wound Healing Center at Sisters of Charity Hospital, St. Joseph Campus

February 22, 2010

For hundreds of people throughout the Buffalo area, “non-healing” wounds are a serious medical problem that can cost thousands of dollars in ongoing medical care and lost productivity, along with an immeasurable amount in lost quality of life. On Wednesday, February 24, Catholic Health will open its first Advanced Wound Healing Center on the Sisters of Charity Hospital, St. Joseph Campus. A grand opening event will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. with a dedication ceremony at 4:30 p.m.

Located in the Caritas Medical Arts Building on the St. Joseph Campus, the 4,500 square-foot facility will offer the area’s most advanced care for the evaluation and treatment of non-healing wounds. Catholic Health plans to open other centers to serve patients throughout the region.

“Non-healing wounds are a growing concern, particularly in Western New York, which has a rapidly aging population and a high prevalence of diabetes and vascular disease,” said Lee C. Ruotsi, MD, FACCWS, UHM, medical director of the program and a certified wound specialist. “This is a much needed community service and we’re eager to open our St. Joseph Campus site and bring a new clinical service to Catholic Health.”

Non-healing wounds, such as pressure, diabetic and leg ulcers, can take months to heal and lead to severe pain, medical complications, extended hospital stays and even limb amputations. Catholic Health’s Wound Healing Centers will offer the most advanced treatment options, including the latest generation of single-patient hyperbaric chambers. Hyperbaric therapy allows patients to breathe 100% oxygen, improving circulation to damaged tissues, stimulating the growth of new blood vessels, and accelerating the healing process.

“Those experiencing non-healing wounds suffer greatly,” Dr. Ruotsi continued. “The care available in our wound centers is extremely effective in improving the health and quality of life for patients who have problematic or non-healing wounds. With the opening of the Advanced Wound Healing Center at St. Joseph Campus, and future expansion planned, we will have all the components to offer an outstanding program and patient experience."